“A warrior and team player” – Fans react as Ex-Edmonton Oilers forward Zack Kassian announces RETIREMENT from NHL after 12 seasons
Former Edmonton Oilers forward Zack Kassian announced his retirement from the NHL after 12 seasons on Thursday.
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Zack Kassian for the Edmonton Oilers (Pic Credit: The Canadian Press)
The National Hockey League (NHL) this year has now seen another player hang up his skates. On Thursday, former Edmonton Oilers forward Zack Kassian informed about his decision to retire from the league. This brought an end to a 12-year career.
The 32-year-old joined the league in 2011 and appeared for four teams. He would spend the majority of his career with the Oilers while accumulating several points. He finished his last season with the Arizona Coyotes with two assists and 50 penalty minutes throughout the season.
The forward eventually finished his tenure while playing 661 games across the league. In that period he collected a total of 203 points (92 goals and 111 assists).
"To play in the NHL is one thing, but to make a 12-year career of it is pretty special. From coaches to equipment staff and fellow players I've met along the way, I've made so many relationships that are going to last a lifetime."Zack Kassian as per NHLPA.
Social media reacts to Zack Kassian’s retirement from NHL
While he did not state any particular reason for his retirement, Zack Kassian’s announcement left some fans stunned. He was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres he was to the Vancouver Canucks in 2012, where he appeared for them for three years.
The forward was later traded to the Montreal Canadiens. He though never played a game for them and was instead sent to the Edmonton Oilers in a trade. He played most of his career here and picked up over 400 appearances for them in over seven seasons.
Since his announcement, fans have come forward and thanked him for this contribution. One user remembered his career and hailed him as “A warrior and team player’. Check out that and other warm reactions sent toward him through X :
He did have a professional tryout with the Anaheim Ducks this season but was released from it. This could have been a reason for this sudden retirement. There had also been gossip and rumors regarding his potential return to the Oilers after being released by the Ducks. However, this never came to fruition and he decided to call it a day in his career.
He might not have won a lot of honors and glories but those who watched him play will remember him as a true teammate player who gave it all for this team.
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Vinay Dave
(1743 Articles Published)